Hi everyone! Dr. Fields here checking in with you from Van Nuys. I’ve gotten a few questions, related to our discussion in the past few weeks about TMJ. I’m so happy to be able to answer your questions! Question: I have been feeling dizzy lately, and not just when I stand up. Could this be TMJ? And how is it related to my teeth? Dr Fields: This is an excellent question, and its great to be able to address this common problem and any misconceptions. Your teeth, ears and sinuses are all closely related. Many of the same muscle groups that are used in your jaw are close neighbors to your ears. Pain in one are can often be connected to the other. Also, there is the issue of your inner ear and balance. The joints and muscles in your jaw are located just in front of the inner ear. It is in the inner ear where balance is established and when this area is affected by tension in your jaw, it may create disruption in your inner ear causing you to lose your balance and feel dizzy. Some other symptoms that you can look out for are in your jaw, such as
- Locking of the jaw
- Change in bite
- Clicking sounds in your jaw
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Sensitivity in your teeth
- Tension in your sinuses
It is unfortunate that we sometimes feel the physical ramifications of stress in our bodies. The good news is that there are several ways to improve your TMJ condition, to limit dizziness and other repercussions of TMJ. I hope this helps to answer your question. If you are experiencing any symptoms like these, please come in and visit me right away so that our staff here in Van Nuys and myself, Dr. Fields, can take care of you. We will do a thorough examination to see if you do indeed suffer from TMJ, as well as address any of your other dental needs. Call me at 818-787-6400. I love to see my regular patients and new patients to help you work through your dental care and TMJ issues. http://www.freedentalinformation.com/home_page